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Submitted to: Acta Horticulturae
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Publication Acceptance Date: 12/7/2009 Publication Date: 6/1/2010 Citation: Richards, C.M., Volk, G.M. 2010. New Challenges for Data Managment in Genebanks. Acta Horticulturae. 859:333-336. Interpretive Summary: Genebanks are a source of variation highly valued by plant breeders developing new varieties. Methods to manage to exploit this diversity are limited without sufficient characterization and evaluation data. This paper proposes that to increase the efficiency of managing genebank diversity and make the collections more accessible requires the active integration of data from genetic and environmental studies. Improvements in the way genebank inventory and descriptor information is integrated with genomics and geospatial and ecological data can greatly improve the way genebanks provide key services not only to traditional users but also emerging stakeholders with an interest in biodiversity. Technical Abstract: The use of genetic resources for crop improvement has undergone a fundamental shift. Continued progress will be dependent upon the natural variation contained within the world’s gene banks. Gene banks must manage their collections in ways that promote their utilization by increasing access to not only the living materials but also to the vast amounts of data that describe them. Documentation of ecological, phenotypic, pedigree, and genetic data associated with gene bank accessions is critical for the efficient use of genetic resources. We must develop a capacity within the genetic resources community to integrate genomic data from gene discovery projects to improve core gene bank management and services. |
